3 Unique Educational Itineraries For Explore Macao’s Culture With Kids!

ITINERARY 1: Historical Adventure at The Ruins of St. Paul's In Macao

Morning:
Start your day at the iconic Ruins of St. Paul's, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic landmark provides a glimpse into Macao's colonial past and architectural beauty. The Ruins of St. Paul are also known as Sam Ba Sing Tzik. St. Paul's Church was built with white stones and had a grand vaulted roof. The façade sits on a small hill, with 68 stone steps leading up to it. There is a steel stairwell that you can climb up and see the view from the top. Make sure you throw coins into the top window for luck. Opening Hours: Wed - Mon : 9am - 6pm / Tues : 9am - 2pm

• Need coffee?
  • Arabica, G/F, 12-18 Travessa Da Paixao Avenida de Almeida Ribeiro, Macau China, https://arabica.coffee/en/location/arabica-macau-travessa-da-paixao/

Lunch:
Head to a nearby café for a family-friendly meal. Many local eateries offer Macanese dishes that are mild and suitable for young palates.

• Dim Sum Lunch Options We Recommend Near St. Pauls In Macao:
  • Long Wa Teahouse (Open 7am-2pm daily) - a unique and eclectic venue from the 1960s that offers a peaceful atmosphere for enjoying tea in porcelain cups alongside traditional Cantonese dim sum, is a cash-only restaurant noted in the Michelin guide and is well worth a visit, though it does not take reservations. Address: 3 R. Norte do Mercado Alm. Lacerda, Macau, +853-2857-4456

Afternoon:
Visit the Macao Museum, located nearby. The museum features interactive exhibits that explore Macao's history, culture, and traditions. Kids can enjoy hands-on displays and engaging multimedia presentations. Address: 112 Praceta do Museu de Macau, Macao. Open 10-6pm daily / closed on Mondays.  

• Afternoon Wine / Bar  Stop And Snacks: Options We Recommend Near St. Pauls In Macao
  • 3 Sardines (Opens From 5pm) - A bit of a walk but worth it!  Portuguese small plates and wine.  Address: G/F, 34 Rua de São Roque, Macao, https://inline.app/booking/3Sardines/Restaurant (Kids over 8 only)
  • Macao Soul - Unique Portuguese wine bar -  (Open from 3pm-10pm on Wed/Thurs and Friday/Sat/Sun from 3pm-12am / Closed Mondays/Tuesdays). Address: G/F, 12-18 Travessa Da Paixao, Macao, +853 6686-2205, http://www.macausoul.com/location.html

ITINERARY 2: Nature and Science at the Macao Science Center

Morning:
Begin your day at the Macao Science Center, a fantastic destination for curious minds. The center offers interactive exhibits on various scientific topics, from astronomy to ecology, making it perfect for kids of all ages. You can explore the Planetarium which kids absolutely love!  The shows are designed to captivate young audiences and spark their interest in the universe. Museum Opening times:  10-6pm daily / closed on Thursdays

Lunch:
Head over to Macao's Fisherman's Wharf which offers loads of restaurant choices!  Click here for options!

Afternoon:
After lunch - jump in a taxi!  You can also explore nearby attractions such as the Seac Pai Van Park, home to the Giant Panda Pavilion, where kids can learn about wildlife conservation.  Opening times: 9:30am to 6:30pm (closed on Mondays, closed on the following day instead if a public holiday falls on Monday).

ITINERARY 3: Cultural Exploration in Taipa Village

Morning:
Visit Taipa Village, a charming area filled with traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Start with a stroll through the cobblestone streets, where kids can admire the colorful buildings and local shops.

Explore the Taipa Houses-Museum, a collection of five historic houses. This interactive museum offers workshops where children can learn about traditional crafts and local history through hands-on activities.

Lunch:
Nestled within the historic Taipa Houses-Museum, Casa Maquista invites diners to discover lesser-known Macanese dishes in a charming century-old mansion overlooking the Cotai Strip. Celebrated for its unique fusion of Portuguese and Chinese culinary traditions, Macanese cuisine has been recognized as part of Macau’s Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2012, with Casa Maquista dedicated to preserving this rich legacy through authentic, homemade-style dishes. Led by chefs Pedro and Mauro Almeida, the menu features a delightful array of carefully crafted options, including highlights like Curry Shrimp with Okra and Turmeric Iberico Pork, all set in a beautifully decorated interior that evokes the warmth of a traditional Macanese home.

• Casa Maquista, Avenida da Praia, Taipa, +853 6217 6332, https://www.taipavillagemacau.com/directory/casa-maquista/.  Open 10am-10pm daily.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, you can explore temples with the family!  Check out these favorites in the area!

• Sam Po Temple, built in 1845 and later renovated, offers families a fascinating glimpse into Macao's rich history and culture. This unique temple features a cave housing an idol, much like the nearby Kun Iam Cave in Taipa, making it an interesting stop for curious kids. Visitors can also see a stone tablet inscribed in Taoist characters, adding an educational element to your exploration of this historic site.  Address: Rua Fernão Mendes Pinto, Taipa
• Tin Hau Temple: The oldest temple in Taipa, built in 1785, overlooks what is now the Cotai area, originally a strip of seashore where fishermen worshiped the Goddess Tin Hau for protection from storms. Dedicated solely to Tin Hau, the temple houses numerous historical relics, including an ancient bell and beautifully decorated gateways. Visitors can explore a rich collection of cultural artifacts from various periods, including incense burners and inscribed boards, providing a captivating glimpse into Macao's heritage.  Address: Rua Gov Tamagmin Barborsa, Macau, Taipa